Cryptic Sea Cradle

Leptochiton kerguelensis

Cryptic Sea Cradle

A small primitive chiton that hides on and under stones in cold southern waters, often tucked among bryozoans or beneath the holdfasts of giant kelp. It ranges through silty muddy bottoms across an enormous depth band, from a couple of metres down past fifteen hundred metres, and is harmless.

Taxonomy: Animalia › Mollusca › Polyplacophora › Lepidopleurida › Leptochitonidae › Leptochiton

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 385808.

FAQ

How deep does the Cryptic Sea Cradle live?
The Cryptic Sea Cradle (Leptochiton kerguelensis) is typically found at 2–1582 m.
Is the Cryptic Sea Cradle dangerous to divers?
The Cryptic Sea Cradle is harmless to divers.